Gutter Types

Considering the large amount of gutter protection systems available, choosing the right one can be a difficult and lengthy decision. Choosing a gutter system is important because they differ in how they can help protect your home from weather related damages.

Some of the things you should take into account are cost, style and durability. Make sure to pay close attention to your home’s needs if you live in an area with extreme temperatures, heavy snow and rain, ice storms or forests.

Some of the most popular types of gutter systems are described below:

Fully Covered Gutter Systems

Provide superior protection from debris and allows maximum water flow into the system which helps avoid overflows that can lead to improper drainage.
They are not nailed to your roof, which can void the manufacturer’s warranty and cause leaks.
Perforations allow a slight slow-down in water flow, giving the gutter cover an opportunity to “bond” which directs the full flow of water into the gutter trough.
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Mesh or Screen Gutter Covers

These gutters consist of metal coverings that are fit against the back of the gutter and across the top acting like a strainer and filter.
Reduces unsightly debris together with snow and ice that can collect on top of the screen and cause it to collapse.
There is a chance for the screens to rust and stain over time. Although they reduce the frequency and difficulty of ongoing gutter cleaning – they do not eliminate it.

Gutter Filters

Sponge-like foam “space filters” let water drain through but keeps leaves from building up in the bottom of the trough.
These filters do not have the capacity to handle heavy rain and water flow, and may overflow during heavy rain.
Snow and ice can settle in the foam, potentially causing ice damage, sagging and overflow.

Solid Gutter Covers

These gutter covers are usually made of vinyl or aluminum.
Solid gutter covers snap onto the top front of the gutter and slip under your shingles which can alter your roofline.
These covers can blow off in high winds and are vulnerable to damage from heavy debris, snow or ice.

Solid Gutter Covers with Slots

Solid gutter covers with slots work by allowing water to enter through slots or small holes located underneath a lip or on the vertical side.
These do not keep out small twigs, dirt, asphalt roofing granules and pine needles.
Covers with slots do not perform as well in very heavy rainfalls or on steep roofs.

Gutter Brushes

Most leaves and large debris are kept out by gutter brushes, small items that get caught near the top of the gutter brush either blow away or decompose over time.
Over time, the dirt, small twigs and pine needles that do not pass through the gutter brush may create a layer of ‘gunk’ in the bottom of the gutter which may cause staining and require periodic gutter cleaning.

Since old, damaged or defected rain gutters can cause a lot of damage, it is important to repair or replace them. Gutter clogs, which cannot divert water properly, can cause wood rot, foundation problems and landscaping erosion. In addition to damaging your home, a rain gutter clogged with soggy leaves and debris is a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Mosquitoes and other pests also become problems when gutters clog.